Chinese Ehretia
ehretia dicksonii
Also known as: ["Chinese Ehretia"]
Overview
A deciduous tree native to China, known for its attractive foliage and small, white flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Boraginales |
| Family: | Boraginaceae |
| Genus: | Ehretia |
| Botanical Name: | Ehretia dicksonii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in temperate climates, or large indoor pot in cooler regions
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required unless in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with organic matter, such as a mix of peat, loam, and sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or partial shade; 4–6 hours of sunlight per day; adjust for intensity in summer to avoid leaf scorch.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; place in dappled shade outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct midday sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid overwatering especially in winter.
Soil
well-drained, fertile loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in moderate temperatures.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain moderate humidity.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use organic options for slow release.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or air layering.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stem, cut below a node, apply rooting hormone, plant in medium, maintain humidity, wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
4–8 weeks for roots to develop; additional months for establishment.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, plastic bag or propagator, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use softwood cuttings for best results; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to open the canopy, heading cuts to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant, encourage bushier growth, remove dead or diseased wood, maintain size and health.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools, prune during dormancy, remove dead/diseased wood, shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if crowded, use fresh soil mix, ensure good drainage, water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil health.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot, use fresh soil, water sparingly post-repotting, place in shade temporarily.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, stunted growth, or wilting in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or dieback if exposed to prolonged freezing temperatures.
Solution: Protect from frost with mulch or frost cloth; move potted plants indoors during freezes.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced vigor in excessive heat without adequate water or shade.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase watering, ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase, dilute fertilizer, apply to moist soil, avoid contact with roots.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicEhretia dicksonii is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of adverse effects in felines from exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Dogs
Non-toxicEhretia dicksonii is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects in canines from exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Humans
Non-toxicEhretia dicksonii is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans under normal circumstances. The plant has not been documented to cause adverse effects through ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Ehretia dicksonii suitable for small gardens?
A: No, it is a large tree and requires ample space.
Q: Does it require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun to partial shade.
Q: Does it produce edible fruits?
A: The fruits are small and not typically consumed by humans.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Boraginaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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